Acquiring Minds

Holdco Origin Story: The Bumpy Road to $3m EBITDA

May 9, 2024
Experienced entrepreneur Chandra Rao discusses challenges with dishonest sellers, financial struggles, navigating payment terms, and partnering issues. He shares insights on due diligence mistakes, embezzlement, conventional loans vs. SBA, and exponential business growth in electrical contracting and fiber cabling. Rao reflects on juggling a roll-up, dealing with fraud, and the complexities of acquisitions and financing in the construction industry.
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ANECDOTE

Go4 Electrical Loss

  • Chandra and Colin's first electrical contracting business, Go4 Electrical, resulted in a $300,000 loss in the first year.
  • They liquidated personal assets to cover payroll due to unexpected working capital requirements and slow payment terms.
ADVICE

Working Capital Analysis

  • When analyzing businesses with working capital needs, go beyond basic calculations.
  • Carefully examine the nature of ongoing projects and payment terms, especially in construction.
ANECDOTE

Near Collapse

  • Financial strain from Go4 Electrical nearly led to its collapse.
  • Chandra and Colin had to inject personal savings and take on additional debt to make payroll.
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